An historic manor house in Northamptonshire has offered a helping hand to people wanting to make a romantic marriage proposal to their partner.

Canons Ashby wants to hear people’s ideas, “no matter how grand”, and has promised to try to make it happen.

Laura Malpas, operations manager, said this year year marked the 150th wedding anniversary of Sir Henry and Lady Frances Dryden, the Victorian occupants of the historic manor house.

“The story Sir Henry and Lady Frances fits the notions of Victorian romance perfectly – they were clearly so in love but waited years until their circumstances were better suited before marrying,” she said.

“Then after over 30 years of marriage, they died in the same year – it’s heart wrenching, In the spirit of this occasion Canons Ashby will be helping couples to get engaged on-site in the most romantic ways possible.

“We want people to send us their ideas, no matter how grand, and we will see how we can help make it happen. We’re really hoping for a flash-mob,” she said.

If you’re hoping to get engaged this year send your suggestions to canonsashby@nationaltrust.org.uk or call 01327 861900.